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Weed: Persian Speedwell

Persian Speedwell is a common weed found in Tennessee. It thrives in shaded areas and spreads quickly once rooted and given the chance to seed. It is used occasionally in gardens as ground cover, but most refer to it as a weed.

What does persian speedwell look like?

The weed grows along the ground. Stems can grow up to 2′ long. The entire plant is covered with tiny hairs. Leaves are roundish to oval and grow to 1/2 to 3/4 inches long. Flowers appear on their own stems and are between 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter. They are four-petalled and blue with white centers.

How to prevent and remove persian speedwell?

Preventing may be tough as they have developed a bit of resistance. Seeds germinate in late winter, so be sure to apply your pre-emergent in late fall/early winter. Already have an infestation? A post-emergent herbicide will kill the plant but it may take more then one application. You can pull as well but be sure to get all of the root as it can re-establish from a tiny piece left behind.

Overview:

Type: Broadleaf
Appearance: The stem is prostrate and up to 2′ long. The whole pant is covered with tiny hairs. Leaves are opposite to one another on the stem and are roundish or oval and about 4 to 16 cm long. Flowering takes place from February to May. These flowers are blue with dark blue lines and white centers.
Life cycle: Winter annual but it can be a summer weed in cooler states.
Where it grows: Lawns, gardens, landscaped areas, roadsides, and other disturbed areas
Reproduces by: Seed
How to prevent: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide but beware, Persian Speedwell has a bit of resistance to herbicides.
How to remove: Pull by hand, or if you have a heavy infestation, you can try the plastic sheet method.